According to DiPietro, Fredig, Black, and Preston (2008), best practices for K-12 online teaching and learning can be listed under four categories:
General Characteristics
Classroom Management Strategies
Pedagogy
Technology
Within these categories, the following elements must be considered to ensure best practices in the K-12 digital classroom.
General Characteristics
Teachers are skilled in using technology
Teachers are innovative and motivated to explore new technologies
Teachers are flexible
Teachers understand and apply learning styles
Teachers utilize interaction strategies to engage students
Teachers are organized
Teachers self-reflect
Teachers are highly skilled in their content area
Teachers understand online course design and pedagogical strategies
Teachers are lifelong learners
Teachers are comfortable with online classroom management strategies
Teachers utilize online technology strategies to ensure a safe learning environment
Classroom Management Strategies
Teachers are proactive in preventing cyberbullying and other inappropriate online behavior
Teachers monitor student communication
Pedagogy
Teachers use multiple strategies to assess student learning and accommodate learning styles
Teachers engage students with content by building course content that is relevant, being flexible with various learning styles, building strong student relationships to ensure rich interactions, motivate students, and provide multiple opportunities to interact with peers and content.
Teachers make course meaningful by utilizing strategies to connect, engage, encourage, and provide support to students with diverse needs.
Teachers monitor student progress to ensure support is provided
Teachers communicate effectively using various technologies
Teachers model formal online communication skills
Technology
Teachers effectively use digital tools to plan, teach, interact, and assess teaching and learning
Teachers use content knowledge to drive technology integration
Within these categories, the following elements must be considered to ensure best practices in the K-12 digital classroom.
General Characteristics
Classroom Management Strategies
Pedagogy
Technology